Met Office maps show exact time thunderstorms to hit Merseyside
Met Office maps show exact time thunderstorms to hit Merseyside

Met Office weather maps show the exact time heavy rain and thunderstorms will hit Merseyside. Yellow weather warnings have been in place across the country for the last two days, and the wet weather is set to continue.

Parts of Liverpool saw thunder and lightning last night. In an alert this morning, the Met Office forecast the stormy conditions will continue. A yellow thunderstorm warning will remain in force from 12pm to 9pm today (Friday, August 28), meaning some flooding is likely.

Warning details and affected areas

The Met Office said: "While many areas will miss the heaviest downpours, heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop during Friday afternoon and evening.

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"The focus of showers and thunderstorms will be over northern England and much of Wales during the early afternoon before extending over central and eastern England through the afternoon."

Areas included in the alert are North West, North East, East Midlands, East of England, London and South East, South West and Wales. Merseyside will see much of the stormy conditions, as well as nearby Warrington, Cheshire, Lancashire and Greater Manchester.

Timing and weekend outlook

Weather maps show blue patches of rain sweeping across the North West on Friday afternoon. Wet weather will hit Liverpool at approximately 4pm. But that is not the end, as heavy rain, winds and possible hail are expected throughout Saturday and Sunday.

In its outlook for Saturday (August 29) in Liverpool, the Met Office said: "A dry and bright start, but turning increasingly cloudy from mid morning with outbreaks of rain reaching the region. Temperatures generally above average. Maximum temperature 20 °C."

Looking ahead to Sunday (August 30) through to Tuesday (September 1), the forecaster added: "Unsettled throughout with showers, these locally heavy and with thundery. Staying warm to start with but turning fresher as winds shift to a westerly and strengthen from Monday."

Impacts and advice

Speaking about the current yellow weather warning, the Met Office said: "There is a good chance driving conditions will be affected by spray, standing water and/or hail, leading to longer journey times by car and bus.

"Delays to train services are possible. Flooding of a few homes and businesses is likely, leading to some damage to buildings or structures.

"Possibly some damage to a few buildings and structures from lightning strikes. Some short-term loss of power and other services is possible."

Thunderstorms will bring 10-20 mm of rain in a short period in a few places, with 30-40 mm possible should anywhere see repeated downpours. Lightning and hail will be additional hazards in a few locations.

The Met Office's advice for thunderstorms reads: "If you find yourself outside and hear thunder, protect yourself by finding a safe enclosed shelter (such as a car). Do not shelter under or near trees, or other structures which may be struck by lightning. If you are on an elevated area, move to lower ground.

"Consider if your location is at risk of flash flooding. If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit. Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

"People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It's easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.

"Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area."

Liverpool weather forecast

Friday, August 28 - 19C - Thundery showers and moderate breeze

Saturday, August 29 - 19C - Thundery showers and a gentle breeze

Sunday, August 30 - 21C - Thundery showers and a gentle breeze

Monday, August 31 - 18C - Light rain showers and a fresh breeze

Tuesday, September 1 - 19C - Light rain showers and a moderate breeze

Wednesday, September 2 - 19C - Light cloud and a gentle breeze

Thursday, September 3 - 19C - Light rain showers and a fresh breeze

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